BBC Confronts Infantino Over Conmebol Backing Amid World Cup Controversy

Sun Sep 06 2026 02:57:08 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

BBC asks FIFA president Gianni Infantino if he has Conmebol backing amid controversy over attempts to sell World Cup stakes.

BBC’s latest interview probes FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s relationship with the South American governing body Conmebol, amid growing calls for his resignation. Infantino, who was in Colombia during the inauguration of President Abelardo de la Espriella, did not answer questions about the federation’s support. The controversy stems from his earlier plan to sell private stakes in the World Cup, a move that faced backlash from football stakeholders. The BBC’s questioning highlights increasing scrutiny of FIFA’s governance and Conmebol’s role in the sport’s future.

BBC confronts Infantino over Conmebol support

August 7, 2026

The BBC asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino whether he had the backing of the South American football governing body, Conmebol, after the body's executive committee called for his resignation.

Infantino was in Colombia during the inauguration of the newly elected President Abelardo de la Espriella when the interview took place, but he did not answer the broadcaster's questions in the press conference.

The FIFA official had previously proposed selling private stakes in the World Cup for the association, a proposal quickly abandoned in the face of backlash from players, clubs and fans.

The BBC's probe comes amid growing scrutiny of the organization's governance and questions over what role Conmebol will play in shaping international football policy.

Further reading: Politicians, private jets and power - the life of a FIFA president